The ripple effects of driving with a suspended license

Driving is a privilege that comes with responsibilities. Drivers must adhere to traffic laws and regulations. In New York, driving with a suspended license carries severe consequences that extend beyond the immediate legal ramifications.

Traffic offense vs. criminal offense

Driving with a suspended license in New York is a criminal offense and not just a traffic offense or ticket you pay; get a few points added to your record and return to normal. No, this criminal offense can result in substantial penalties, such as:

1. Fines imposed by the court
2. Probation period
3. Imprisonment

In addition, if law enforcement catches a person driving with a suspended license, the suspension period may be extended. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in New York takes these violations especially seriously and can impose additional penalties.

Let’s look at the potential consequences

Considering the consequences of driving with a suspended license is worthwhile because penalties can vary depending on each case. In some cases, the ramifications can last for a very long time, making it a life-altering event.

Fines and penalties

In addition to potential imprisonment and extended license suspension, which means the driver will not have driving privileges for an even longer period of time than the sentence they had before, penalties include increased fines and other financial penalties.

Vehicle impoundment

Law enforcement is able to impound the vehicle of an individual caught driving with a suspended license, adding an additional layer of complications and expenses. The individual caught driving without a valid license will be responsible for towing and impoundment fees, on top of other penalties.

Escalation of charges

Every additional charge adds up, and a conviction for driving with a suspended license becomes permanent on a person’s criminal record. Every subsequent offense does, too. This alone can have far-reaching consequences, affecting employment opportunities, housing opportunities, and the ability to get unsecured credit.

Given the severe consequences of driving with a suspended license in New York, it is critical to think twice about getting behind the wheel with an expired driver’s license. Even if you’re going to your neighborhood supermarket a few blocks away from home, the distance does not matter. Ensure you follow traffic laws, and if the state charges you for driving without a valid license, ensure you have a quality defense to protect your rights and advocate for you.